how to make samp

How to Make Sambar: A Step-by-Step Guide

Sambar is a delicious South Indian dish that is commonly served with idli, dosa, or rice. It is a flavorful and nutritious lentil soup made with a blend of spices and vegetables. If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine or simply want to try something new, making sambar at home is a great way to enjoy this traditional dish. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make sambar from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of toor dal (split pigeon peas)





• 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as onions, tomatoes, carrots, beans, and eggplant)
• 2 tablespoons of sambar powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• Curry leaves
• 2 dried red chilies
• Tamarind paste or lemon juice (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)

Step 1: Cooking the Lentils

Start by rinsing the toor dal thoroughly under running water. Then, place it in a pressure cooker along with 3 cups of water, turmeric powder, and a few drops of oil. Cook the dal for about 10-12 whistles or until it becomes soft and mushy. Once done, mash the cooked dal using a spoon or a whisk.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

While the dal is cooking, you can prepare the vegetables. Chop the onions, tomatoes, carrots, beans, and eggplant into bite-sized pieces. Keep them aside for later use. You can also add drumsticks, squash, or any other vegetables of your choice.

Step 3: Making the Sambar

1. Heat a large pot or a deep pan and add some oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
3. Add the asafoetida, dried red chilies, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
5. Next, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.
6. Add the remaining vegetables, sambar powder, and salt. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
7. Pour enough water to cover the vegetables and let it simmer until the vegetables are cooked through.
8. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the mashed dal to the pot and mix well. Adjust the consistency by adding water if necessary.
9. Simmer the sambar for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Finally, add tamarind paste or lemon juice according to your taste preferences. Give it a good stir.

Serving the Sambar

Once the sambar is ready, you can garnish it with fresh coriander leaves and serve it hot with idli, dosa, or rice. It can be enjoyed on its own as a soup as well. The tangy and aromatic flavors of sambar make it a perfect accompaniment to a wide variety of dishes.

In conclusion, making sambar at home is a simple and rewarding process. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a flavorful and hearty dish that will impress your family and friends. So don’t hesitate to give it a try and delve into the vibrant world of South Indian cuisine!